Acute Encephalitis Syndrome Outbreak in Gujarat: Latest Updates

Emergence of Chandipura Virus

As of July 2024, a total of 148 cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) have been reported, with 140 cases originating from 24 districts of Gujarat, 4 from Madhya Pradesh, 3 from Rajasthan, and 1 from Maharashtra. Tragically, 73 of these cases have resulted in fatalities.

Ministry Data and Geographic Distribution

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 148 cases of AES were reported in June and July across four states. Gujarat has been the most severely affected, accounting for 140 of the cases. Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra have reported 4, 3, and 1 cases, respectively.

Chandipura Virus Linked to Outbreak

Laboratory testing has linked the majority of the AES cases in Gujarat to the Chandipura virus. This virus is transmitted through mosquitoes, and it primarily affects children under the age of 15. Symptoms of AES include high fever, seizures, altered consciousness, and vomiting.

Prevention and Control Measures

Public health authorities are implementing various measures to control the outbreak and prevent further spread of the Chandipura virus. These measures include:

• Mosquito control through fogging and use of insecticide-treated bed nets
• Surveillance and early detection of cases
• Vaccination of children against Japanese Encephalitis (JE), which is a related flavivirus
• Public education campaigns on preventive measures

Stay Informed

For the latest updates on the AES outbreak in Gujarat, please refer to official sources such as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Gujarat Health Department.